Q&A With Jordan Lennerton
Jordan Lennerton spent two seasons at Oregon State, racking up 16 home runs in 114 career games with the Beavers. Lennerton came to Oregon State from El Paso Community College where played for two seasons. Upon arriving in Corvallis, the Langley, B.C., Canada, native immediately made an impact with the Beavers, tying for the team lead with 10 home runs as a junior. Lennerton hit three home runs and drove in four runs in five games at the 2007 College World Series as Oregon State clinched its second consecutive title.
Lennerton recently sat down with to reflect on his Oregon State career.
OSU: After two years at Oregon State, what comes to mind?
Jordan Lennerton: “First of all, I am going to miss it a lot. It’s going to be different not coming to the park every day and not being able to play in the front of the fans. I’ve never had the chance to play in front of this many people at home and knowledgeable fans like we have here. It’s a great opportunity to experience a good run like we had last year and the great atmosphere we have as well.”
OSU: What’s the feeling like when winning a National Championship?
JL: “It’s pretty tough; I wish everyone could have that feeling. As a collegiate baseball player, I am glad that I got to. It’s pretty surreal when you win, and as much as it hurts to be on the bottom of the dogpile, it’s still a pretty good feeling. Obviously this year, the team didn’t make it and it’s a disappointment, but it didn’t take away what this program is all about. We are still going to be known as a very competitive and good team. The coaching staff is always rooting for us and I know the fans are going to support us again next year and for many years to come.”
OSU: What does Coach Casey mean to you?
JL: “He is an amazing person, a great man and very smart. He knows what he wants and he will do whatever it takes to get whatever he wants out of each individual player. I am very grateful to have played for him. He busted my chops quite a bit because he knew that I could do better. Sometimes players take that for granted. I know I did but I definitely appreciate it now looking back.”
OSU: You hit a home run in your last collegiate game; how special is that?
JL: “It was good. It was especially nice because it was at home. My folks were there and it was a nice farewell for me. I was trying to give something back to everyone else who has supported me. It’s just a good feeling.”
OSU: How special was it for you to be a part of the 2008 senior class?
JL: “I thought it was great. I liked how OSU not only saluted the players, but the families as well. They often get overlooked and a lot of people don’t realize how much time and effort and most of all money that the parents have to put forth so we can succeed. It’s great that we get to say thanks to the parents as well as the players.”
OSU: What would you say to the fans at OSU?
JL: “I would say thanks for two great years and it’s been a riot. It has been two of the best years of my life. I am going to miss playing in front of them. A lot of fans would come up to you outside the park and just talk and be friendly. It’s great to be able to communicate with people around the city.”
OSU: How do you want to be remembered by the Oregon State fans?
JL: “I hope they remember me as someone who helped the team and someone who was a leader. Someone who came to the park everyday and did everything he could to help the team win. I hope I showed that through my performance. I know I struggled at times, but hopefully they saw me as a competitor and a guy who never quit.”
